HAL Partners with SAFHAL to Develop Aravalli Engines for India's IMRH and DBMRH Helicopters

The contract was signed by Mr. S Anbuvelan, CEO Helicopter Complex, HAL, and Mr. Olivier Savin, Director, SAFHAL and EVP, OEM Sales and Marketing, Safran Helicopter Engines and Mr S K Mehta, Director, SAFHAL and and Executive Director (Finance), HAL

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt Ltd (SAFHAL) have signed an airframer contract, to commence joint design, development, manufacture, supply, and support of a new generation high power engine named Aravalli for the 13-ton Medium Lift class, Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), being designed & developed by HAL. The name Aravalli derived from the mighty mountain range of India, symbolises the aspirations of our country in achiveing Aatmanirbharta in critical engine technologies.

SAFHAL, a joint venture between Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, dedicated to the design, development, production, sales and support of new generation helicopter engines in India, marks a significant milestone in India's aerospace and defense sector, aiming to enhance the nation's Aatmanirbharta in helicopter engine technology.

Under this strategic contract, SAFHAL, will work with their parent companies on cutting-edge engine technologies, ensuring superior performance, reliability, and operational efficiency. This collaboration involves state-of-the-art design, advanced manufacturing processes, and rigorous testing protocols to meet the highest global standards.



Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH)

IMRH is a new 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed by HAL to meet the requirements of the Indian armed forces. A naval version, the 12.5-ton DBMRH (Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter), is also being developed for the Indian Navy. The engines will be designed to operate in diverse and challenging environments in which these Helicopters will be deployed. Future extension to civil market for offshore operations, Utility, VVIP transport, etc., is also planned followed by MRO activities.

Safran Helicopter Engines has been HAL’s partner of choice for powering its helicopters, starting with the Artouste engines used in Cheetah and Chetak, followed by Shakti engine and its variants powering the ALH, LCH and LUH. The present collaboration elevates this time-tested relationship to the next level through the joint design and development of modern state-of-the-art helicopter engines intended for application in medium-lift Helicopters.